How Automatic Car Transmissions Work and Their Different Types

Automatic transmission cars are among the most frequently rented vehicles among Jakarta's car rental companies. In this article, we will explain how automatic transmissions work in automatic cars, along with the types of such transmissions. Please read our following explanation.

 

As we know, there are two types of transmission systems widely used in cars: automatic and manual. Essentially, the car's transmission system functions to convert the rotational force and speed from the engine, allowing it to be used for vehicle movement. The transmission system enables drivers to change gears or transmission ratios, allowing the engine to operate efficiently in various situations, such as tackling uphill roads, achieving high speeds, and more.

 

Now, if you're interested in cars with automatic transmission systems, here's how the system works. But before that, let's first understand what is meant by an automatic transmission system in cars.

 

What is an Automatic Transmission System?

An automatic transmission system is a type of transmission that can automatically change gears based on the engine load derived from the amount of pressure on the gas pedal and the speed of the car. Therefore, vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission (automatic or automatic transmission) do not require a clutch and gear lever for gear shifting as in a manual transmission system. Instead, this system has components such as a torque converter, planetary gearset, clutch packs, and an ECU that can manage gear changes based on vehicle speed, load, and torque requirements. The automatic transmission system also utilizes advanced technology to monitor and precisely control gear shifts.

 

The automatic transmission system has several modes or options that can be selected by the driver, such as the "Drive" (D) mode for automatic forward movement, the "Reverse" (R) mode for reverse movement, and the "Park" (P) mode to lock the wheels when the car is parked. Some automatic transmission systems also have manual or "Sport" modes that allow the driver to control gear shifts manually through the use of a lever or buttons."

 

How Does the Automatic Transmission System Work?

The explanation of how the automatic transmission system works begins with a component called the torque converter, which acts as a replacement for the mechanical clutch to transfer torque through the pump and turbine sections. It's important to note that this component has three blades. The first blade functions as a pump directly connected to the engine. The second blade is used to connect the turbine to the planetary gear wheel, while the third blade serves as a stator.

 

When the automatic transmission system is in operation, the first blade rotates and moves the transmission fluid within a sealed chamber. In this process, the oil pressure propels the turbine and provides an increase in torque as the engine RPM rises.

 

In the mechanism of an automatic transmission, the planetary gear functions similarly to the gear ratio in a manual transmission, which is responsible for changing the rotational ratio from the turbine to the wheels. Therefore, the working principle is similar to the function of a gear lever used to drive a car. The difference lies in the physical design, where the planetary gear does not have two rows of gear wheels that engage different ratios. In the automatic transmission mechanism, the planetary gear only uses one set of gears surrounded by several smaller-sized gear sets. Then, the valve body plays a role in hydraulically changing the ratio in the planetary gear.

 

Essentially, the way the common automatic transmission system used in modern cars works is to optimize gear shifts. The operation of the automatic transmission system involves a number of components working together to automatically adjust gear shifts based on vehicle speed and engine demands. Some of these components include the torque converter and planetary gear. The torque converter operates when the car is in motion with the clutch slipping, while the planetary gear enables the car to change gears automatically. Both work together to create smooth and seamless gear shifts.

 

Read Also: Preventing Oversteer and Understeer During Driving: Useful Advice

 

Types of Automatic Transmissions

1. Conventional Automatic Transmission (Hydraulic Automated Transmission)

The operation of this automatic transmission type involves the use of torque converters to convert mechanical energy into kinetic energy, which is then transmitted to the driveshaft. It's important to note that in cars with manual transmissions, torque converters function similarly to clutches. Both components serve the same purpose despite their different operational methods.

 

2. Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT)

In the CVT type of transmission, gear shifts are achieved through changes in the diameters of the drive and driven pulleys. These two components follow the rotation of the car's engine and are connected by a steel belt.

 

The advantages of CVT compared to conventional automatic transmissions (AT) lie in smoother gear transitions. Additionally, the engine performance in CVT transmissions is lighter, more responsive, and capable of optimizing fuel efficiency.

 

3. DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission)

This type of transmission adopts the concept of a manual transmission with automated clutch pedal operation. That's why cars with DCT transmissions are often referred to as cars with automated manual transmissions.

 

This transmission uses two dual clutches controlled by a computer to manage odd and even gear shifts. The transmission relies on a computerized system that regulates the rhythm of gear shifts. This system also has the ability to monitor driver needs and adjust gear shifts to provide optimal performance.

 

4. Automated Manual Transmission (AMT)

Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) is a type of transmission in cars that combines the characteristics of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic transmission. This type of automatic transmission is not very common as it can result in a fairly strong jerking sensation during gear shifts.

 

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That's all the information we can provide about how automatic transmissions work and their types. If you're looking for a car to rent, please contact MPMRent. Our services are currently available in various major cities in Indonesia, such as Jakarta, Bandung, Solo, Semarang, and others. So, contact the nearest car rental service in your city. We provide monthly, weekly, and daily car rental services.

 

For more information, please contact our team. MPMRent will be happy to assist you!